High School Sketchbook Tour.... Advice for young artists

Instagram🌸@leighellexson
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WELL HERE'S THIS. Uhm. Yep. Another shout out to my Patron's who got me to my goal to make this video. Though I seem like I wasn't excited to make this... I was just a little bit. Hehe. I hope you guys like this video...
🌺Intro Song🌺
@maikewatson
www.soundcloud.com/maike-watson
🌸Video Music🌸
Chillin' By: Dj Quads
Early By: Dj Quads
Grows Up By: Dj Quads
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[@LilChuunosuke]

I'll be horribly honest here: while good art does motivate me, seeing amazingly talented artists' work at my age looking worse than what I draw is far more motivating. Because I always worry that I'm lagging behind other artists and not as good as I should be at my age and sometimes I need a little reminder that I'm doing just fine.

[@nocturnalshiri2525]

Total Trash Mammal Yes! I know exactly how you feel!

[@clara-wq1wm]

Same here

[@b.l.o.b.2017]

I’m completely the opposite. Seeing good art motivates me to work harder so that one day I can produce art of an even higher calibre. I’m 13 but this would be the same even if I was 35. If you wanna be good or get good at art you just have to accept that it’s not a race for the finish line, there will always be people better than you, people who have been doing art for longer or people who have got professional help so you just have to be patient and focus on your own art

[@allysonjuan402]

I couldn’t relate more dude oml

[@mahur7407]

same

[@placidplusperky]

Hopefully this isn't super mega weird, but I went to your high school (I was one grade below you I think) and took a bunch of art & photo classes and I remember really admiring your work when I saw it in the art room or at open houses or whatever. I think I literally remember seeing some of the exact pieces that you said you drafted in that sketchbook. But anyways, it's super cool to see how far your art has come and I think it's great that you get to make a living doing what you enjoy!

[@LeighEllexson]

CUTE!!! Not weird, that's so cool that you remember that! Sorry for my late response 💕

[@JEGDUDE]

Hello there

[@ollieeeeeeeee]

i think the fact that its so full and packed full of art is important?? like there is a piece of advice there. I used to just draw one little thing in the middle of the page then start on the next page and do the same and I know a lot of younger artists do the same. I think the advice is to fill up your sketchbook and let it like flow and be experimental and now worry so much about having proper finished pieces in there, and it seems like you really got that!! thank u for sharing i love these types of videos

[@LeighEllexson]

Love this! Yessss!! I'm glad you liked the video and saw this advice in it 💕

[@abbysart2014]

I loved this sketchbook tour. I especially liked that you didn't say that it's bad or talk it down

[@alexiam2999]

Abby's Art but the pest part was stranger things stuff at 8:42

[@abbysart2014]

loli pups agreed

[@ChantelleArts]

Crazy how some of these pieces are still so similar to your artwork now 😍

[@LesleyLizbeth]

This gives me HOPE!! Haha

[@laurasoltan1477]

You: I dind't plan this so anything could happen Me: *subscribes*

[@LeighEllexson]

11 11 me at my finest

[@leahellefsen1845]

When she showed her cheap water colours I paused it and realised I use the exact same ones now. Personally I’m actually pretty happy with them though and the art I make using them always turns out pretty good. I guess that’s just a good example of how not everything works for everyone and how good it is to experiment with different things

[@AshleyIsArtsy]

I never would have guessed this is what your art used to look like! Fascinating and super cool! Definitely agree about keeping old sketchbooks, I have a whole stack of mine in my room, and I love looking back at them to see my own improvement!

[@LeighEllexson]

I've lost a lot of mine, but just having this one is both amusing and helpful!

[@AshleyIsArtsy]

Definitely!

[@chantel9322]

I just want you know that your intro is the cutest thing that has ever been witnessed on the internet

[@oliviarafferty]

it makes me think of sesame street!!

[@joy7367]

WOAH, I admire so much the way you just didn't care about what you were drawing, and were just drawing what you wanted on the moment, I mean you just drew and you're so creative and I don't know, I personally think about it too much so it kind of blocks me

[@lindsey2178]

the gum wrapper at 8:56 BRINGS ME BACK. used to do that to all of my binders/notes in high school.

[@maaizelaa]

I started this year to try to draw and paint for serious, i mean I used to draw when I was 15 (I’m 21) but only cartoons and stuff like that for fun, but now I’m trying to find “my style” so I do everything like animals, urban sketches, people, etc.. I’m still in the search and learning a lot so yeah, my art looks a little bit silly now but I really hope that with time and practice it will go better in a future. Love you leigh💕

[@LeighEllexson]

You can definitely do it! 🌸💕 I'm get so excited when I hear of people like you who pick drawing back up after a long break. SO exicteeedddd!!

[@samevans1289]

Mai Zela Lol I started drawing and keeping a sketchbook last year, so I'm 21 but my drawings look like I'm 13-15, you know, since most people start drawing at that age and by 21 they already have a style and know the basics😂😂It's so embarrassing

[@maymay5812]

Mai Zela I'm in the same boat I feel so LIKE amazed other people feel the same

[@morganpony2]

So great to see an old sketchbook tour that is positive! No shame!

[@Tamagojani]

It was really nice to see what you did in high school! I never really did a lot of collages but the pages look so experimental and interesting. there is so much to look at! Also, some very nice advice! And what I especially like, is that you just drew whatever you wanted and „didn‘t really care“. I sometimes wish i could feel a little more free with my sketchbooks. because that‘s what they are for after all! This video was super motivating for me! (And lol your expression in th thumbnail is so cute xD)

[@unicornpuff5magic968]

Is it weird that Leigh is embarrassed by the artist she used to be, but I absolutely love this sketchbook?

[@Tamagojani]

Unicornpuff5 Magic I don‘t think so. You also grow with your art and your expectations will rise aswell. that‘s probably the reason that leigh doesn‘t like most of the pages in that sketchbook. :) I like the pages aswell so yaaa

[@artistgalgani5317]

-wow didn't expect you here!

[@kaylab5286]

I love that big painting of flowers on your wall in the back!

[@moth_pile]

This is a really different sketch book tour than the other sketch book tours I’ve watched Like the ideas are different Is this a compliment? Idk anymore

[@kelleneellexson1962]

Oh! And I always loved looking at your sketch books....still do.

[@tuuli4860]

I actually love your drawings like so cool and the dark ones are amazing I draw realistic portraits and I love drawing I love this sketch book like so unique and and creative

[@angieirizarry29]

When u we’re talking about the type of watercolor u used to use I was like that sounds like the gross chalky one Im practicing with now and when u showed the picture I was like that is the exact gross watercolor palette I use now wow I need to invest in better paints

[@henxiukba2715]

I love your sketchbooks 😍🥰🌺💕💗

[@vantaefemke]

I feel like I am so boring because my sketchbook is only pencil sketches

[@rat-lk2ri]

Femke Pulles same

[@chandransabanayagam1770]

Well don't worry... People have different styles in sketchbooks some might college, have color... But its just a place were you practice in! I think just pencil sketches are just fine!

[@death__ray]

Chris Hong art's sketchbooks are only pencil sketches and are 👌 so good

[@RadishTheFool]

I just bought the Strathmore mixed media sketchbook because of your recommendation in another video. It's my first fancy sketchbook, and oh my it's so nice. Just the feel of the book, the weight of it, the texture of the cover, the thickness of the pages. I just did my first page this morning, where I swatched my watercolours. I don't think I've ever painted on paper that was more relaxing to work with it. I noticed it's actually 100% cotton paper, so that explains why it works so well. Unfortunately, I did that page before swatching my pens. So of course the ink smudged like crazy. But I don't even care, I'm so pumped to fill this beauty. And then I'll probably buy the same one again. So thank you so much for the recommendation! 💚

[@Yurizcinderella]

All those animals are so cute and adorable! Especially the bears and bunnies, I love 'em! ♥w♥

[@meekomar5312]

I own the bag shown at 9:12! that's crazy. I also recognized that collaged image of the three cats that are in angellic wear at 6:52, I just can't place where it's from... Great sketchbook, I love all the natural chaos and experimentation it shows you did! My old sketchbooks from high school are nowhere near as interesting.

[@KaitiElaine]

I loved the fox page. It looked like a spread out of a children’s book 😍😍

[@_niyabella]

This makes me really sad that I threw away my sketchbooks when I was like 13-14 ugh. NEVER THROW AWAY YOUR SKETCHBOOKS!! Also if you’re a digital artist make sure you save your stuff on a flash drive cause if your computer breaks/malfunctions all your pieces will be gone (I’ve uploaded all of mine on my blog but if I didn’t I’d have been screwed)

[@kaylianatrepeur]

10:01... The gang symbol... I died.

[@mlv4h]

U commented on my bday...

[@just-your-cup-of-tea]

Old sketchbooks are the best because you can see how far you've come from that point in life like I can't understand people who throw theirs away

[@RaynaPerryArts]

Your sarcasm and disdain for it was probably the best part of the video 😂 I’m glad you could be so humorous about it. Reflecting back on my old work I’m like, “wow... this is crap.” Or “wow, this is actually pretty good.” It’s crazy to think about and see the improvement over time.

[@crescentpumpkin3483]

I found some art of mine from grade school this month and it was super cringe worthy but it's funny how it's the same sort of subjects that I like to draw now. Growing up is crazy like that. I love how chaotic and creative your sketchbook is. There's so much raw energy.

[@myrkflinn4331]

This is one of the most fun sketchbooks to look into

[@courtneyc6937]

I am 11 5 months till 12 and I have stared drawing! You inspire me so much ❤️❤️

[@Glanzfellchen]

The art at 4:56 is so awesome. I would love to see a remake of this. If you do these things. Some of these could hang in galleries. I can feel how proud you are on your younger self and it is so awesome. I love that. It' is such a good thing.

[@byMarceloENG]

AMAZING! The good thing is that we see the "2017 Leigh" in this sketchbook... I like all those textures, the draws, the different personas , colors, I don't know how to explain, but this skethbook is really sooo rich!! Someday I think you'll publish it. Is your history ! Congratulations always! Please, send Herc a big kiss!!! XOXO from Italy! :D

[@LeighEllexson]

Marcelo awww I’m glad you see me in it 😻😽 thank you all the kind comments 💖💖 I’ll relay your message to Herc! 🐣

[@meowmeowchan6467]

I love the Harry Potter drawing

[@beeze-knees]

You have my sense of sarcasm when it comes to your art.

[@alexarmanto6016]

'you know wut? yolo' totally get that

[@oliviarafferty]

loving all the little comments you wrote in your sketchbook haha "just a weird cone of pine. deal with it."

[@nelatgym1265]

Thank you for sharing, even if you don’t wanted it 😊

[@RadishTheFool]

Also, I love this sketchbook tour so much. You were so free in exploring in all directions at the same time. It makes me very happy, and it inspires me immensely.

[@jeanthomas7523]

I really enjoyed your sketchbook tour! It's always super inspiring to me to see artists I like go through their old sketchbooks. Thanks for sharing!!

[@rapidren3367]

Honestly I loved this. Everything about it. Thank you so much for sharing!

[@onebrightsheep7103]

Love the page that had a bunch of hands! It’s always great to see what other artists drew like when they were just staring out or a bit younger, thank you for sharing 😊🦊!

[@byJessicaElena]

AHHH such a wonderful video Leigh. I love seeing people's older work to see how they've changed. LOVELY A+ 10/10

[@rainbowraven7051]

This really inspired me. Thankyou for sharing your high school sketch book with me and the rest of the Internet.

[@le-vd6sp]

i saw your intro and instantly subscribed that's literally the cutest thing i've ever seen omg also your art is so pretty and the colors you used and mixed media and wOw that's really cool

[@LeighEllexson]

Thank you! 💕

[@theeverythingchannel1607]

This video has really inspired me. I’m in high school right now and I really want to get more into art, but I’ve always put myself down for not being as good as other artists. This video has given me inspiration to just keep going and not give up, and I owe you a lot of thanks for that ❤️

[@louisefox361]

Seeing all the different ways you composed your work is so inspiring 💖💖 AH YOU’RE SUCH AN AMAZING ARTIST!!!

[@DennisCNolasco]

Wow, it's so awesome that you're sharing this, thanks Leigh!

[@cierrahartline5486]

This is lovely Leigh ! I will be signing up for patron soon ❤️ thank you for sharing this experience with us !

[@Virgonc13]

This sketchbook is so goals for me!

[@emilysavage6540]

These videos make me so happy!!! You've come so far

[@ameliah8122]

Your art style is beautiful! I'm so inspired by these drawings even thought they're from a while ago. Ly💘

[@Fricroller]

6:52 I FUCKING LOVE THAT BOOK HELL YEAH

[@MistySnuggleBug]

Ah!!! I'm so glad I found your channel today! So far after whatching a few of your videos I can definitely say I'll be returning to whatch your future ones ❤

[@ravenanna]

Everyone starts somewhere. I loved this. Keep it up :) ♥ p.s. interesting to see how you improved and some good advice here

[@severedstride]

this is awesome! i love the way u put random things on the page, and then draw around it , keep it up

[@strawberrie5074]

Subscribed! I've watched a few videos of yours and you've inspired me to draw so much! Your art is so cute and pastel-ish,I just love it :D

[@Gummybunnybearsmiles]

I love how free your sketchbook is? My art teacher in school forced us to work in little samples then paste them in and annotate. As we had to work in A3 books and our samples were never allowed to be bigger than A5 our books were just massive pages of text a lot of the time with coloured washes in the background.

[@LeighEllexson]

Cream-Tea-And-Sandwiches whatttt! That’s nuts! All my teachers are were always encouraging me to go larger!

[@Gummybunnybearsmiles]

Leigh Ellexson Urgh at portfolio interviews for universities they were always criticising the format saying the borders around our work were distracting or there was too much writing and not enough experimentation and we're all just like 'yep, we know. We have to do it this way' it was really refreshing once I got to uni to be able to work outside of tiny pieces of paper directly copying other artists methods

[@icecubeteeth]

I'm obsessed with your style

[@0LulaRose0]

Thank you for sharing this with us! I know how hard it must have been, ain't no way I'd be sharing my high school sketch book! Loved the Harry Potter spread! X

[@romasen3962]

its so artistic........all the pages.....nothing seems to be a mess in your sketchbook.....well done....

[@KPEN72]

My favorite cheap watercolors are the Simply watercolors (you can find them at Walmart). They’re tube watercolors and are a really good quality for their price. Good luck to my fellow high schoolers who are art kids ✌️

[@bellakasper8933]

omg! this book is beautiful!!!

[@lindysmith13]

Nice work and very brave of you!

[@Mariam-jb1qe]

This is my first time on your channel And I gotta subscribe not just cuz of your awesome art ...but also because of your Harry Potter references I LOOOOVE HP!!!❤️⚡️

[@annmarie8489]

I'm so jealous, wish I was more curious about mixed media back then lol. But amazing art! Totally love it!

[@houseplantdraws]

You seriously inspire me so so much. Thank you. >.

[@moonbathed]

This sketchbook,is so colorful and i love it. ^^

[@amberrousseau1517]

Wow I’m literally about to be in AP art (journalism...?) next semester so this video was pretty dang cool to see all the experimentation you’ve done in that class :3

[@AlbeenoCookie]

Leighhas such a nice voice and arts so good and is so pretty what a gift

[@Jay-ud9ek]

Wow your pages are so pretty and creative!!!

[@bulletsfordinner8307]

I really enjoyed this video. You are so talented!

[@snowcactus9346]

You were so good even then! Thanks for sharing 😸

[@lilyfae7197]

That art is so good!

[@kylakyla3190]

I absolutely loved this sketchbook!!!!

[@mari-kw9vi]

THIS INTRO IS SO CUTE I LOVE THE WAY U DRAW CATS AND ACTUALLY I LOVE THE WAY YOU DRAW EVERYTHING?????????

[@LeighEllexson]

mari THANK U

[@rx500android]

This is sooo good!

[@localocaproductions795]

I LOVE THE INTRO!!

[@trashzratz3214]

this gives me hope!

[@flyingkabosu5680]

Hey. Thank you for showing your scetchbook. Your art really inspires me. And encourages me to keep trying. I always think that I'm ''too old'' to get started, because I'm 19 and not even half as good as you were then ( which always dragged me down). But I just bought myself my first real scetchbook and I start to draw seriously again. And give me more time to improve. ty for that

[@Anna-ic4ge]

This is so so beautiful

[@leeleeb7413]

Your sketchbook is goals for me right now! 😍😍

[@cinziasmith2203]

I don't think I filled my high school sketch book, I just tore the pages out that I liked and put it in a portfolio for college lol. This is very creative though, you improved a lot over the years. You awesome!

[@myrkflinn4331]

LOL, at the end, I also draw on some tests or worksheets and stick em in my sketchbook XD My teacher of art would love your sketchbook btw XD she loves experimental collages

[@isabellariggs8987]

I love the Harry potter one.

[@supdude2895]

You were so creative! I don't know what your art looks like now I am new, I just subbed😊

[@edelgrane9375]

this intro cat is sooo cuteeeee

[@Randemmz]

This is so cool! Such an impressive sketchbook!!! :)

[@jars4048]

i think this is so cool !! i would love to experiment with my sketchbook and put whatever i want in there without caring about what it looks like

[@joana1746]

Wow this video gave me a lot of confidence

[@karmenkoch3789]

Our school is getting rid of IB art next year because there weren't enough people so I'll probably never be able to take it and the juniors that are in it this year will probably get it taken off their transcript as an uncompleted class. So basically they got a waste of time and effort and I get no extra oppurtunities👍🏻

[@brittneyharrison7737]

Much love for your videos 💛💛

[@solastacey127]

I love the spread at 4:28

[@aardverak5297]

Awesome Advice Leigh! Love you (3

[@zoebryan5987]

O my gosh I just found your channel and tour intro is adorable!!!!

[@J3ONYO]

Aw...I always love your intro

[@snakeheads]

i would like a vid on how you edit your videos bc the cute lil doodles and the filter and everything is so aesthetic af 💖✨

[@audismith9258]

I have that same exact watercolor pallet that you showed! It's very cheap that's why I got it, but I'm spat to be getting mute vivala color sheets or whatever it is